Friday, December 14, 2012

Experience The Unforgettable With Cozumel Diving

By Edwina Heuser


If you're looking for sun, sea and beautiful tropical beaches, you can't go wrong with the Yucatan peninsula. Along with the feel of a Caribbean holiday, you can add a touch of Mexico by sipping margaritas while feeling the white beach sand underneath your toes. However, one of the most memorable things you can do in this part of the world is to go on a Cozumel diving trip.

Mexico's largest island measures more or less 30 miles from northern to southern tip and 10 miles from western to eastern shoreline. It's easy to get to as well, simply a boat ride away from the tourist mecca of Cancun. You can visit for a day, but you will probably find that you want to stay for a few days at least.

Restaurants and bars line the beaches here, catering to day trippers, cruise passengers and backpackers alike. There is an accommodation option to suit every budget. You will be hard pressed not to love the warm, subtropical climate and the cool breezes blowing in from the ocean.

Island life is all about being laid-back and relaxed. However, if you're feeling antsy during your Cozumel vacation, you can take part in water sports, visit Mayan ruins or swim with dolphins at the Chankanaab National Park. The island is also world-renowned for the excellent scuba diving in its waters, so if you haven't done a PADI course yet, this is the perfect place to get your certification.

It is easy to dive in the Caribbean waters around the beautiful island. Visibility is excellent and you can often see up to as much as 100 feet. Strong currents will carry you, so drift diving is the most popular method. The water is a nice and comfortable temperature, but many divers recommend that you wear a light wetsuit.

What enchanted Cousteau and many after him is the abundant marine life in Cozumel's reef systems. There are two reefs, the Palancar reef and the Colombia reef. Here you will find many fish species as well as seahorses, lobsters, octopuses and even sea turtles. Bringing your underwater camera is essential.

There is a host of Cozumel diving operators, mostly concentrated in the town of San Miguel on the western side of the island. They offer dive packages for divers with varying skill levels. Remember to choose a reputable operator that is also environmentally responsible, since the reef ecosystems are very fragile. Ask around or check online for recommendations. Then simply remember to make sure your camera works under water.




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